HC sports prepare for Fall season

HC sports look forward to the upcoming fall season. The teams have been training over the summer break for the 2015-16 seasons and are preparing for their first competitions this fall.

Men’s soccer: Blue Devils’ soccer star seniors, Aimé Mabika and Collin Rose committed to play soccer for the University of Kentucky for fall of 2016. Lead by these two, the team had an impressive performance last season, but fell short of a state championship with losing to Dunbar 1-2.

“We have a lot of skill and talented players this season,” Junior Donavon Gregory said. “After not winning State last year we are more determined and driven to win.” They were undefeated (3-0) at the Bluegrass State Games and won two preseason games against Male HS and Model. The Blue Devils won their first game 3-2 against Ryle last Friday, and play their first FCPS match this Tuesday against Dunbar.

Women’s soccer: HC Girls soccer looks forward to another winning season. The team beat East Jessamine 2-0 in their first match. Last year, the JV team went undefeated and hopes to do the same this varsity season with talent among experienced upperclassmen and younger players.

“Playing on an undefeated team last year was amazing,” Junior Alexis Hayes said. “The main focus on training this summer was defending as a team, staying in shape to be fit for the season.” Their first home game will be played Aug. 26 against Scott County.

Football: The HC football team is hopeful for a remarkable 2015-16 season. Head Coach Sam Simpson has high expectations for his team this year.

“We expect our team to be very competitive in every game we play,” he said. “Our goal is to be city and district champions, and then to play for and win a state championship.” Simpson also stated that his mission in the off-season was pushing his players to getting faster and stronger and to develop his players as “all-around student athletes.” They play their first game of the season August 28 against St. Xavier.

HC Volleyball: Lady Blue Devils’ had an imposing 25+ wins last season, boosting the team to a top 5 ranking in KVCA (Kentucky Volleyball Coaches Association) preseason standings, as well as ranked 1st in Lexington.

“We have had a solid run the last several years being ranked in top five of state,” Coach Dale Grupe said. “We expect to take that to an even higher level this year.” This year the team’s goal is to work very hard and achieve greatness. “We have the potential to win a state championship in sport that has never had a public school win it.” Grupe said.

Dance Team: Over the summer, the HC dance team competed at UDA (Universal Dance Association) and received a double bid to 2016 National Dance Team Championship at the Walt Disney World Resort® in Orlando, Florida. The team placed second in their group routine as well as receiving all blue “Superior” ribbons in individual events. “UDA camp was the first real competition with the team this year,” Freshman Elizabeth Wolfe said. “It’s good to be on a winning team that pushes you to get better every day.”

After several exciting seasons of sports last year, (a state championship title in lacrosse, 1st place state track & field team, and an undefeated football season among all FCPS opponents), the HC teams are prepared for another successful year for HC sports.